FAQ

For an in depth look into what Freemasonry is as a whole, thee-book [right] is a great piece of reading material which contains many answers to the most frequently asked questions.

Frequently Asked Questions

- How much does it cost to join? How much does it cost to maintain your membership?

A: Like any organization there are some costs. We have two costs; first the initiation fees, and second the yearly dues.

The initiation fee is broke up in several stages and you only pay for parts as you go through the degrees. The second cost is the yearly dues. This is broken up in to two parts. The first part goes towards the lodge and covers it operating expenses and the second is a per capita fee payed to the Grand lodge.

The costs on occasion do change so for the current cost please contact us.

- How long has the Janesville lodge been around for?

A: The Western Star Lodge held it's first meeting in Janesville in June of 1847. The current building at 2322 East Milwaukee Street was built in 1965 and dedicated in 1966.

A: The Square and Compasses is the single most identifiable symbol of Freemasonry. Both the square and compasses are architect's tools and are used in Masonic ritual as emblems to teach symbolic lessons.

Some Lodges and rituals explain these symbols as lessons in conduct: for example, that Masons should "square their actions" and learn to "circumscribe and keep us within due bounds toward all mankind".

However, as Freemasonry is non-dogmatic, there is no general interpretation for these symbols (or any Masonic symbol) that is used by Freemasonry as a whole.

As measuring instruments, the tools represent judgment and discernment.

The letter "G" is interpreted to represent different words jurisdiction to jurisdiction. Among the most widely accepted interpretations are that: [G] stands for God, and is to remind Masons that God is at the center of Freemasonry.

In this context it can also stand for Great Architect of the Universe (a reference to God). In a different context, the letter stands for Geometry, described as being the "noblest of sciences", and "the basis upon which the superstructure of Freemasonry is erected."

- My father or uncle was a Mason. How do I find out if he was
a member ofthe Janesville Lodge?

A: You may contact the Janesville Masonic Center or the Grand Lodge of Wisconsin by phone or email. The Lodges keep deep historical records of all of our Brethren, and are more than happy to assist you in your inquiry. contact us.

- How do I join?

A: A man must apply of his own free will and accord and with an open heart, be recommended by two Master Masons, be at least 18 years old, and believe in a Supreme Being.

Our
How to Join. Page contains many of the details. You can also contact us with any questions or concerns you may have with joining.

- How do the Janesville free masons interact with other organizations and fraternal groups? (ie. Lions or American Legion)

A: The Lodge interacts with other organizations and groups by supporting their goals and endeavors though our many programs.

We've worked with many including the Janesville American Legion, YMCA, The American Cancer Society, local schools, as well as many of the other Masonic Lodges. Our Lodge and its members have provided support though our monetary contributions in the form of scholarships, cash donations, and the purchasing of needed items from various groups.

The members of the Janesville Lodge also volunteer time and effort in the aide and assistance and support of other organizations and groups. More information on Local Events here!

A: Janesville Western Star 55 Lodge works with a number of organizations, providing $500.00 scholarships to the local high schools, support of the Firepup Program for fire safety, sponsorship of the YMCA Youth T-Ball team, and frequent food donations to ECHO.

Visit our Programs Page for more information and links to these wonderful programs.

What is Freemasonry?an e-book on the ancient and honorable fraternity. Compiled by: Greg Stewart

click on the book to open

Still have questions? You can submit a question just by clicking the button below which will take you to our contact page. Just enter in your name, email, and your question, and we'll do our best to answer for you!